Social sciences in the service of modernization: reflections on the legacy of the Bucharest School of Sociology at the Euromed University of Fes

The Euromed University of Fes (UEMF) was pleased to welcome Prof. Bogdan Bucur, university lecturer in the Department of Sociology of the Faculty of Political Sciences at the National School of Political and Administrative Studies of Bucharest – Școala Națională de Studii Politice și Administrative (SNSPA), on the occasion of a conference entitled: "Social sciences in the service of modernization: public health, rural education and community development in the experience of the Bucharest School of Sociology".

This academic meeting is part of UEMF’s desire to promote international scientific exchanges and to foster spaces for reflection on the role of the humanities and social sciences in understanding and supporting societal transformations.

At the opening of his presentation, Prof. Bogdan Bucur presented the history and the main foundations of the Bucharest School of Sociology, considered one of the major currents that contributed to the development of the social sciences in Europe. He notably highlighted the methodological approaches developed by this school, based on the study of social realities through field observation, surveys and analysis of community dynamics.

Through this historical and scientific perspective, the conference revisited this school of thought’s contribution to major projects of social modernization, particularly in the fields of public health, rural education and community development. The work carried out by its researchers illustrated the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to better understand populations’ needs and to design public policies adapted to local contexts.

Discussions with participants also emphasized the essential place of the social sciences in developing sustainable solutions to contemporary challenges. By dialoguing academic research, field observation and public action, these disciplines help build development models that are more inclusive and closer to human realities.

Through organizing this conference, the Euromed University of Fes reaffirms its commitment to international academic dialogue, the circulation of knowledge and scientific cooperation. This meeting testifies to the importance UEMF attaches to interdisciplinary approaches and collective reflection on the major transformations shaping our societies.